Canada competition watchdog probing Apple over iPhone contracts

A Canadian competition authority is probing allegations that Apple tried to stifle competition by including certain clauses in its iPhone contracts with wireless carriers, according to media reports.

A Canadian competition authority is probing allegations that Apple tried to stifle competition by including certain clauses in its iPhone contracts with wireless carriers, according to media reports.

The Canadian Competition Bureau has sought a court order demanding Apple Canada hand over documents relating to the probe, Canadian Press said.

"It is important to note that there is no conclusion of wrongdoing by Apple Canada at this time and no application has been filed with the Competition Tribunal or any other court to seek remedies for any alleged anti-competitive conduct," bureau spokesperson Greg Scott said in an email, according to The Toronto Star.

The Competition Tribunal is an independent body that deals with false advertising, mergers and restrictive trade issues. The bureau has not said who made the allegations.

The iPhones are distributed in Canada mainly through carriers including Rogers Wireless, Bell Mobility and Telus.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for information about the case.